Heatwave warning issued for Northern Rivers

A SEVERE heatwave is forecast to intensify across the Northern Rivers this week, with temperatures climbing into the mid to high thirties and remaining warm at night.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe heatwave warning for the Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast, Northern Tablelands and Upper Western.

Across the Northern Rivers the Bureau forecasts daytime maximum temperatures on Monday will range between 30 and 35.

Similar temperatures are expected on Tuesday, reaching the low to mid thirties.

Wednesday is forecast to be the hottest day, with daytime temperatures reaching 32 to 37 across the region.

Northern parts of the Upper Western are forecast to reach the low to mid forties, with overnight minimums in the mid to high twenties.

In the northeast of the state, including the Northern Rivers, maximum temperatures are expected to reach the high twenties to mid thirties, with overnight minimums in the high teens to low twenties.

Severe heatwave conditions are expected to ease in the west early to mid week but persist over the northeast later in the week.

Locations likely to be impacted include Bourke, Dorrigo and Lismore.

The Bureau advises that severe heatwaves can be dangerous for many people, including older people, babies, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions and people who are unwell.

People are urged to stay in a cool place such as a home, library, community centre or shopping centre.

Residents are advised to close windows and draw blinds or curtains early in the day to keep heat out.

NSW Ambulance has issued an Advice alert for the severe heatwave and is encouraging residents to monitor updates.

People are encouraged to use fans or air conditioners if available.